JP2012521550A - Sensor - Google Patents

Abstract

A sensor and method for generating an electrical signal indicating the position and range characteristics of a mechanical interaction within a sensing band. The sensor includes a plurality of conductive layers. At least one conductive layer is a pressure sensitive conductive layer comprising a quantum tunneling conductive (qtc) material. Conductive layers can be in contact while there is no mechanical interaction within the sensing zone. The sensor is configured to have a 3-terminal sensing function or a 4-terminal sensing function. The detection band may be substantially two-dimensional or substantially three-dimensional. The sensor may be substantially flexible or substantially rigid.
[Selection] Figure 2

Description

[Cross-reference of related applications]
This application claims priority from UK Patent Application No. 0950337.8 filed on Mar. 25, 2009, all of which are incorporated herein by reference in their entirety.

[Background of the invention]
(1. Field of the Invention)
The present invention relates to a sensor for generating an electrical signal indicative of a characteristic of a mechanical interaction within a sensing band and a method for producing an electrical signal indicative of a characteristic of a mechanical interaction within a sensing band.

(2. Explanation of related technology)
British Patent No. 2 365 532 by the present applicant discloses a flexible alphanumeric keyboard fabricated from fabric. The flexible alphanumeric keyboard structure utilizes first and second woven conductive layers. The reference describes that the first and second conductive fabric layers are usually placed apart and further separated to ensure that the first and second conductive layers can be in communication during mechanical interaction. It shows that a means is given.

  U.S. Pat. No. 5,943,044 to Martinelli et al. Discloses a touchpad assembly and method for generating a signal indicating position and pressure applied by an object touching the touchpad. The touchpad assembly includes a semiconductor resistive sensor layer that is sensitive to X and Y positions and pressure. When an object touches the touch pad, the position sensor layer is arranged to contact at a contact point.

British Patent No. 2 365 532 US Pat. No. 5,943,044

  A problem has been discovered in sensors that utilize a separation means between first and second conductive layers. A manufacturing challenge with this type of sensor is that manufacturing overhead exists as a prerequisite for providing reliable separation means. A post-manufacturing challenge for this type of sensor is that the functionality of the sensor is destroyed by erroneous factors. Since the functionality of the separating means tends to decrease more rapidly than a rigid sensor, these issues are particularly common in sensors that are configured to have a margin to bend.

[Brief Description of the Invention]
According to a first aspect of the present invention, there is provided a sensor for generating an electrical signal indicating a position characteristic and a range characteristic of a mechanical interaction within a detection band, the sensor comprising a plurality of conductive layers, At least: having a first electrical terminal and a second electrical terminal that are electrically connected so that the slope of the electrical potential can be determined in the first direction between the first electrical terminal and the second electrical terminal A first conductive layer having a configured first conductive region; and a second conductive layer having a second conductive region having a third electrical terminal electrically connected thereto; Configured to establish an electrical path between the first conductive region and the second conductive region during mechanical interaction within the sensing zone; at least one of the plurality of conductive layers is conducting quantum tunneling conduction A pressure sensitive conductive layer comprising a conductive (qtc) material; Serial sensor, wherein during the mechanical interaction within the sensing zone is not present, contact between the conductive layers is constituted to allow the sensor is provided.

  According to a second aspect of the present invention, there is provided the sensor according to the first aspect of the present invention, wherein the third electrical terminal is a sheet terminal.

  According to a third aspect of the present invention, in the first aspect of the present invention, the second conductive region has a fourth electrical terminal electrically connected thereto, and the third electrical A sensor is provided that is configured such that the slope of the electrical potential between the terminal and the fourth electrical terminal can be determined in a second direction substantially perpendicular to the first direction.

  According to a fourth aspect of the present invention, there is provided a method for generating an electrical signal indicating a position characteristic and a range characteristic of a mechanical interaction within a detection band of a sensor, according to the first aspect of the present invention. Receiving a sensor, determining a slope of an electrical potential in a first direction across the first conductive layer between the first electrical terminal and the second electrical terminal, and receiving a first voltage from the third electrical terminal. Generating a first position value and processing the first position value to generate a first position characteristic of a mechanical interaction, the first electrical terminal of the first conductive layer and the second Determining an electrical potential from one of the electrical terminals to generate a first current; measuring the first current from the third electrical terminal of the second conductive layer to generate a first current value; An electric potential from the other one of the first electric terminal and the second electric terminal of one conductive layer. A second current is generated by measuring the second current from the third electrical terminal of the second conductive layer, and a second current value is generated in combination with the first current value. A method is provided that includes the steps of processing the second current value to generate a range characteristic of the mechanical interaction.

  According to a fifth aspect of the present invention, there is provided a method for generating an electrical signal indicating a position characteristic and a range characteristic of a mechanical interaction within a detection band of a sensor, according to the third aspect of the present invention. Receiving a sensor, determining a slope of an electrical potential in the first direction across the first conductive layer between the first electrical terminal and the second electrical terminal, and the third of the second conductive layer. Receiving a first voltage from one of the electrical terminal and the fourth electrical terminal to generate a first position value and processing the first position value to generate a first position value of mechanical interaction; Determining an inclination of an electric potential in the second direction across the second conductive layer between the third electric terminal and the fourth electric terminal, and the first electric terminal of the first conductive layer and Receiving a second voltage from one of the second electrical terminals to generate a second position value; A second position value is processed to generate a second position value for mechanical interaction, and an electrical potential is determined from one of the first electrical terminal and the second electrical terminal of the first conductive layer. Generating a first current, measuring a current from one of the third electrical terminal and the second electrical terminal of the second conductive layer to generate a first current value, An electric potential is determined from the other one of the first electric terminal and the second electric terminal to generate a second current, and other than the third electric terminal and the fourth electric terminal of the second conductive layer. Measuring the second current from one of the two to generate a second current value and processing the second current value in combination with the first current value to generate a range characteristic of the mechanical interaction. Is provided.

FIG. 1 shows a sensor for generating an electrical signal indicating the position and range characteristics of a mechanical interaction within a detection band. FIG. 2 illustrates the physical layout characteristics of the plurality of conductive layers. FIG. 3 shows a three-terminal electrical configuration for providing the sensor with the function of indicating the position and range characteristics of the mechanical interaction. FIG. 4 shows the steps of the procedure for generating the position and range characteristics of the mechanical interaction in the sensor having the three-terminal electrical configuration described with reference to FIG. FIG. 5 shows a four-terminal electrical configuration for providing the sensor with a function to indicate the first and second position characteristics and range characteristics of the mechanical interaction. FIG. 6 shows the steps of the procedure for generating the position and range characteristics of the mechanical interaction in the sensor having the four-terminal electrical configuration described with reference to FIG. FIGS. 7-11 each show different conductive layer arrangements useful in the sensing zone, each arrangement comprising at least one layer comprising qtc material. FIG. 8 shows an arrangement of conductive layers useful in the detection zone. FIG. 9 shows an arrangement of conductive layers useful in the detection zone. FIG. 10 shows an arrangement of conductive layers useful in the sensing zone. FIG. 11 shows a conductive layer arrangement useful in the sensing zone. FIG. 12 shows the arrangement of detection bands. FIG. 13 illustrates a procedure for generating first and second position characteristics and range characteristics of mechanical interaction in a sensor using the four-terminal electrical configuration described with reference to the sensing band arrangement of FIGS. Shows the steps. FIG. 14 shows the detection bands provided by the matrix of rows and columns. FIG. 15 illustrates a procedure for generating first and second position characteristics and range characteristics of mechanical interaction in a sensor using the four-terminal electrical configuration described with reference to the sensing band arrangement of FIGS. Shows the steps. FIG. 16 shows an example of a sensor production method. FIG. 17 shows a first application example of a sensor having the structure described herein. FIG. 18 shows a flexible sensor. FIG. 19 shows the first and second sensors. FIG. 20 shows the first and second sensors of FIG. 19 electrically connected to operate as a single sensor. FIG. 21 shows a sensor organized to detect simultaneous multiple mechanical interactions within the sensing zone. FIG. 22 shows a sensor configured to provide a substantially circular sensing band. FIG. 23 shows a sensor configured to have a substantially annular sensing band. FIG. 24 shows a further application for the two-dimensional detection band. FIG. 25 shows a sensor having a substantially three-dimensional detection band. FIG. 26 shows a controller configured to recognize pressure and gestures.

[Description of Best Mode for Carrying Out the Invention]
(Figure 1)
FIG. 1 shows a sensor 101 for generating an electrical signal for indicating a position characteristic and a range characteristic of a mechanical interaction within a detection band. The sensor 101 includes a plurality of conductive layers including at least a first conductive layer 102 and a second conductive layer 103. At least one of the plurality of conductive layers is a pressure-sensitive conductive layer including a quantum tunnel effect conductive (qtc) material. Examples of quantum tunneling conductive (qtc) materials are described in commonly assigned US Pat. No. 6,291,568 and US Pat. No. 6,495,069. The sensor is configured such that the conductive layers are in contact while there is no mechanical interaction within the sensing zone.

  As described in detail below, the plurality of conductive layers of the sensor includes an arrangement of electrical terminals (not shown). The electrical terminals may be arranged to provide a three-terminal sensing arrangement for the sensor so that the position value and range value of the mechanical interaction can be determined. In Cartesian coordinates, the three-terminal detection arrangement enables measurement in the X-axis or Y-axis direction as well as measurement in the Z-axis direction. The electrical terminals may be arranged to provide a 4-terminal sensing arrangement for the sensor so that the first and second position values and range values of the mechanical interaction can be determined. In Cartesian coordinates, the four-terminal detection arrangement enables measurement in the X-axis direction and Y-axis direction as well as measurement in the Z-axis direction.

  Accordingly, the sensor 101 may include an electrical interface device 104 that is electrically connected to electrical terminals of a plurality of conductive layers. Sensor 101 is configured to be responsive to a mechanical actuator. In one embodiment, the sensor is configured to respond to actuation by the finger 105.

(Figure 2)
FIG. 2 illustrates the physical layout features of the conductive layers 102 and 103 of FIG.
While there is no mechanical interaction, the conductive layer is considered to be dormant. During the mechanical interaction, the conductive layer is considered to be in a deformed state.
201 shows an example of mechanical interaction. During the mechanical interaction, the first and second conductive layers 102, 103 are in physical contact. 202 shows an example in which there is no mechanical interaction. While there is no mechanical interaction, the first and second conductive layers 102, 103 may or may not be in physical contact. All contact between the first and second conductive layers while there is no mechanical interaction depends on the microstructure of these layers in the dormant state.

According to the illustrated example, the second conductive layer 103 comprises a quantum tunneling conductive (qtc) material. qtc material is deformation-responsive in that qtc material has resistance in a particular direction and has a certain degree of deformation in that particular direction, and a change in resistance is a change in the degree of deformation in that direction. Appears accordingly. The qtc material can be modeled as a variable resistance whose current changes with pressure, tension or twist. When force is applied, the resistance of the qtc material decreases controllably and repeatably.
A conductive layer including a qtc material is referred to herein as a “qtcm layer”. The qtcm layer is considered to have planar resistance in the X-axis and Y-axis directions of Cartesian coordinates and depth resistance in the Z-axis direction of Cartesian coordinates.

  The conductive layer has a resistance across the layer and a resistance component that penetrates the conductive layer. During mechanical interaction within the sensing zone, the qtcm layer experiences deformations that result in local variations in plane resistance and depth resistance. The qtcm layer is pressure responsive in that a change in depth resistance is expressed at the site of mechanical interaction depending on the mechanical interaction. The qtc material has a quiescent depth resistance high enough to impede current flow, and a deformation depth resistance low enough to allow current flow measurements. Provided to have.

The qtc material can thus be modeled as an insulator in the rest state and as a conductor in the deformed state. As an example, the qtc material has a resistance of 1 megohm in the rest state, but exhibits a resistance of less than 10 kilohms in the deformed state. It is understood that the particular qtc material used for a sensor having the structure described herein should be selected to provide the desired degree of sensitivity necessary to detect the mechanical interaction detected by the sensor. Can be done.
The electrical properties of the qtc material are such that the qtcm layer can be utilized in a sensor with an array of conductive layers that can physically contact the qtcm layer with other conductive layers when the sensor is at rest. The benefits provided by this feature are generally discussed.

  One advantage of this feature is that it does not require any requirements on the means to separate the qtcm layer from other conductive layers. The separation layer used in the prior art is typically provided by the arrangement of insulating nodes, such as provided by voids, meshes or patterns of individual elements. The step of providing a separation layer during sensor manufacture can obviously be omitted. This makes it possible to reduce one or more of the materials used in the manufacturing process, the complexity of the manufacturing process, the duration of the manufacturing process, and the post-manufacturing inspection in sensor manufacturing. . Furthermore, omitting the separation layer results in a relative reduction in the overall thickness of the particular plurality of conductive layers. Similarly, it is possible to reduce the size of an item to which a sensor such as a car phone is attached.

  Without a separation layer, the force applied during mechanical interaction can be transmitted more directly through the sensor than prior art sensors. Thus, sensors that do not include a separation layer between the qtcm layer and other conductive layers are particularly useful in applications where relatively small deflections are expected due to the detected mechanical interaction.

(Figure 3)
FIG. 3 shows a three-terminal electrical configuration for providing the sensor with the function of indicating the position and range characteristics of the mechanical interaction. The first conductive layer 102 has a first conductive region electrically connected to the first electric terminal C1B and the second electric terminal C1T, and determines the gradient of the electric potential in the first direction D1 between these terminals. Configured as follows. The second conductive layer 103 has a second conductive region that is electrically connected to the third electrical terminal R1R. As shown in FIG. 3, the first electric terminal C1B and the second electric terminal C1T of the first conductive layer 102 are line terminals, respectively, while the third electric terminal R1R of the second conductive layer 103 is a sheet terminal. . The arrangements that determine the position and range characteristics of the mechanical interaction are illustrated at 301 and 302, 303 and 304, respectively. In 301, 302, and 303, the first conductive layer 102 is schematically represented by a potentiometer, and the resistance of the conductive path between the first and second conductive layers 102 and 103 is schematically represented by a variable resistance Rv. It is.

  In the arrangement of 301, a positive voltage is applied to the electrical terminal C1B of the first conductive layer 102, but the other electrical terminal C1T of the first conductive layer 102 is grounded, thereby the electrical potential between them. The inclination is determined in the direction D1. During mechanical interaction, a voltage from the first conductive layer 102 is applied to the second conductive layer 103 at the site of mechanical interaction. The voltage is measured from the electric terminal R1R of the second conductive layer 103, whereby the voltage V1 is applied. V1 is directly proportional to the distance from the electrical terminal R1R of the second conductive layer 103 to the center of the mechanical interaction. Thus, the position characteristics of the mechanical interaction can be derived from V1. It can be seen that the role of the electrical terminals of the first conductive layer 102 in the 301 arrangement can be reversed.

  In the arrangement 302, a positive voltage is applied to the electric terminal C1B of the first conductive layer 102, and the other electric terminal C1T of the first conductive layer 102 is disconnected. During the mechanical interaction, current flows from the electrical terminal C1B of the first conductive layer 102 to the electrical terminal R1R of the second conductive layer 103 via the site of mechanical interaction. The electric terminal R1R of the second conductive layer 103 is grounded through a resistor having a known value. The voltage is measured from the electric terminal R1R of the second conductive layer 103, whereby the voltage V2 is applied. V2 represents a voltage drop across a resistor of a known value and is directly proportional to the current flowing between the electrical terminal C1T of the first conductive layer 102 and the electrical terminal R1R of the second conductive layer 103 during mechanical interaction. .

  In the arrangement 303, a positive voltage is applied to the electric terminal C1T of the first conductive layer 102, and the other electric terminal C1B of the first conductive layer 102 is disconnected. The electric terminal R1R of the second conductive layer 103 is grounded through a resistor having a known value. During mechanical interaction, current flows from the electrical terminal C1T of the first conductive layer 102 to the electrical terminal R1R of the second conductive layer 103 via the site of mechanical interaction. The voltage is measured from the electric terminal R1R of the second conductive layer 103, whereby the voltage V3 is applied. V3 represents a voltage drop across a resistor of a known value and is directly proportional to the current flowing between the terminal C1B of the first conductive layer 102 and the electrical terminal R1R of the second conductive layer 103 during mechanical interaction.

  As shown at 304, during the mechanical interaction, there is a certain relationship between the resistance Rv of the conductive path of the first and second conductive layers 102, 103 and the measured voltages V2 and V3. The resistance Rv is proportional to the sum of the reciprocal of V2 and the reciprocal of V3. The resistance Rv of the conductive path of the first and second conductive layers 102 and 103 during the mechanical interaction depends on the mechanical interaction applying force and the applied pressure, and the area of the mechanical interaction. Thus, the magnitude characteristic of the mechanical interaction can be derived from V2 and V3.

  In an alternative arrangement of a three-terminal electrical configuration for the same conductive region of the first and second conductive layers 102 and 103, the first and second electrical terminals C1 B, C1T and the second conductive layer of the first conductive layer 102 The third electrical terminals R1R 103 are line terminals. Providing the second conductive layer 103 with line terminals instead of sheet terminals increases the sensitivity of the sensing arrangement to mechanical interactions as the distance of mechanical interactions from the line terminals decreases. Thus, it has been found that this effect must be offset.

(Fig. 4)
FIG. 4 shows the steps of the procedure for generating the position and range characteristics of the mechanical interaction in the sensor having the three-terminal electrical configuration of FIG.
In step 402, the electrical arrangement 301 of FIG. 3 is performed and a V1 measurement is performed to obtain a first position value. In step 403, the electrical arrangement 302 of FIG. 3 is performed, a V2 measurement is performed, and a first range value is obtained. In step 404, the electrical arrangement 303 of FIG. 3 is performed, a V3 measurement is performed, and a second range value is obtained. In step 405, the first position value is processed to obtain a position characteristic. This step, however, can be performed at any time after step 402. In step 406, the first range value and the second range value are processed in combination to obtain a range characteristic. This step, however, can be performed anytime after steps 403 and 404.

(Fig. 5)
FIG. 5 shows a four-terminal electrical configuration for providing the sensor with a function to indicate the first and second position characteristics and range characteristics of the mechanical interaction. The first conductive layer 102 has a first conductive region electrically connected to the first electric terminal C1B and the second electric terminal C1T, and determines the gradient of the electric potential in the first direction D1 between these terminals. Configure as follows. The second conductive layer 103 has a second conductive region that is electrically connected to the third electric terminal R1R and the fourth electric terminal R1L, and determines the inclination of the electric potential in the second direction D2 between these terminals. Configure as follows. In this example, directions D1 and D2 are substantially vertical. As shown in FIG. 5, the first electric terminal C1B and the second electric terminal C1T of the first conductive layer 102 and the third electric terminal R1R and the fourth electric terminal R1L of the second conductive layer 103 are line terminals, respectively. is there.

  Arrangements for determining the first and second position characteristics and the range characteristics of the mechanical interaction are illustrated at 501 and 502 and 503, 504 and 505, respectively. In 501, 502, 503, and 504, the first and second conductive layers 102 and 103 are schematically represented by potentiometers, respectively, and the resistance of the conductive path between the first and second conductive layers 102 and 103 is It is schematically represented by a variable resistance Rv.

  In the arrangement 501, a positive voltage is applied to the electric terminal C 1 B of the first conductive layer 102, and the other electric terminal C 1 T of the first conductive layer 102 is grounded, so that the gradient of the electric potential between them is reduced. Confirm in direction D1. During mechanical interaction, a voltage from the first conductive layer 102 is applied to the second conductive layer 103 at the site of mechanical interaction. The voltage can be measured from the electric terminal R1R of the second conductive layer 103, and the other electric terminal R1B of the second conductive layer 102 is disconnected, whereby the voltage V1 is applied. V1 is directly proportional to the distance from the electrical terminal R1R of the second conductive layer 103 to the center of the mechanical interaction. Thus, the first position characteristic of the mechanical interaction can be derived from V1. It can be understood that the role of the electrical terminal of the first conductive layer 102 and the role of the electrical terminal of the second conductive layer 103 in the arrangement 301 can be reversed.

  In the arrangement of 502, a positive voltage is applied to the electric terminal R1R of the second conductive layer 103, and the other electric terminal R1L of the second conductive layer 103 is grounded, so that the gradient of the electric potential between them is reduced. Confirm in direction D2. During mechanical interaction, a voltage from the second conductive layer 103 is applied to the first conductive layer 102 at the site of mechanical interaction. The voltage can be measured from the electric terminal C1B of the first conductive layer 102, and the other electric terminal C1T of the first conductive layer 102 is disconnected, whereby the voltage V2 is applied. V2 is directly proportional to the distance from the electrical terminal C1B of the first conductive layer 102 to the center of the mechanical interaction. Thus, the second position characteristic of the mechanical interaction can be derived from V2. It can be seen that the role of the electrical terminal of the second conductive layer 103 and the role of the electrical terminal of the first conductive layer 102 in the arrangement of 502 can be reversed.

  In the arrangement 503, a positive voltage is applied to the electric terminal C1T of the first conductive layer 102, and the other electric terminal C1B of the first conductive layer 102 is disconnected. The electric terminal R1R of the second conductive layer 103 is grounded via a known resistor, and the other electric terminal R1B of the second conductive layer 102 is disconnected. During mechanical interaction, current flows from the electrical terminal C1T of the first conductive layer 102 to the electrical terminal R1R of the second conductive layer 103 via the site of mechanical interaction. The voltage is measured from the electrical terminal R1R of the second conductive layer 103, whereby the voltage V3 is applied. V3 represents a voltage drop across a resistor of a known value and is directly proportional to the current flowing between the terminal C1T of the first conductive layer 102 and the electric terminal R1R of the second conductive layer 103 during mechanical interaction. It can be understood that the role of the electrical terminal of the second conductive layer 103 and the role of the electrical terminal of the first conductive layer 102 in the arrangement 503 can be reversed.

  In the arrangement 504, a positive voltage is applied to the electric terminal R1L of the second conductive layer 103, and the other electric terminal R1R of the second conductive layer 103 is disconnected. The electric terminal C1B of the first conductive layer 102 is grounded via a known resistor, and the other electric terminal C2T of the first conductive layer 102 is disconnected. During mechanical interaction, current flows from the electrical terminal R1L of the second conductive layer 103 to the electrical terminal C1B of the first conductive layer 102 through the site of mechanical interaction. The voltage measurement is performed from the electrical terminal C1B of the first conductive layer 102, thereby providing the voltage V4. V4 represents the voltage drop across the resistor with a known value and is directly proportional to the current flowing between the electrical terminal R1L of the second conductive layer 103 and the electrical terminal C1B of the first conductive layer 102 during mechanical interaction. . It can be understood that the role of the electrical terminal of the second conductive layer 103 and the role of the electrical terminal of the first conductive layer 102 in the arrangement 504 can be reversed.

  As shown at 505, there is a relationship between the resistance Rv of the conductive path of the first and second conductive layers 102 and 103 and the measured voltages V3 and V4 during the mechanical interaction. The resistance Rv is proportional to the sum of the reciprocal of V3 and the reciprocal of V4. The resistance Rv of the conductive path of the first and second conductive layers 102 and 103 during the mechanical interaction depends on the magnitude of the application force and the applied pressure of the mechanical interaction and the area of the mechanical interaction. . Thus, the magnitude characteristic of the mechanical interaction can be derived from V3 and V4.

(Fig. 6)
FIG. 6 illustrates the steps of the procedure for generating the position and range characteristics of the mechanical interaction in the sensor having the four-terminal electrical configuration of FIG. 5 In step 602, the electrical arrangement of 501 of FIG. , V1 measurement is performed to obtain a first position value. In step 603, the electrical arrangement 502 of FIG. 5 is performed, a V2 measurement is performed, and a second position value is obtained. In step 604, the electrical arrangement of 503 in FIG. 5 is performed and a V3 measurement is performed to obtain a first range value. In step 605, the electrical arrangement of 504 of FIG. 5 is performed, a V4 measurement is performed, and a second range value is obtained. In step 606, the first position value is processed to obtain a first position characteristic. This step, however, can be performed any time after step 602. In step 607, the second position value is processed to obtain a second position characteristic. This step, however, can be performed anytime after step 603. In step 608, a range characteristic is obtained by processing the first range value and the second range value in combination. This step, however, can be performed at any time after steps 604 and 605.

(Figs. 7-11)
FIGS. 7-11 each show an arrangement of different conductive layers available in the sensing band, each arrangement comprising at least one layer comprising qtc material.
As described above, a conductive layer containing a qtc material is referred to herein as a “qtcm layer”. A conductive layer that does not include a qtc material is referred to herein as a “non-qtcm layer”. The non-qtcm layer can include any other type of conductive material. As an example, the non-qtcm layer includes carbon.

  7-11, the outer surface of the first outer layer is electrically connected to the first and second electrical terminals, and the outer surface of the second outer layer is at least a third electrical terminal. Electrically connected to provide a 3-terminal sensing arrangement or a 4-terminal sensing arrangement (not shown) as described above. FIG. 7 shows an arrangement of a plurality of conductive layers 701 including a first layer 702 that is a qtcm layer and a second layer 703 that is a non-qtcm layer. The first and second layers 702 and 703 are configured as first and second separation sheets 704 and 705.

  FIG. 8 shows yet another arrangement of a plurality of conductive layers 801 including a first layer 802 that is a qtcm layer and a second layer 803 that is also a qtcm layer. The first and second layers 802 and 803 are configured as first and second separation sheets 804 and 805. This arrangement is similar to the arrangement of FIG. 7 in that only two layers are provided, but differs in that two qtcm layers are provided instead of qtcm and non-qtcm layers. In embodiments where multiple qtcm layers are provided, the same or different single or multiple types of qtc materials may be utilized for the deployment of each qtcm layer.

  FIG. 9 illustrates a plurality of conductive layers including a first layer 902 that is a first non-qtcm layer, a second layer 903 that is a qtcm layer, and a third layer 904 that is a second non-qtcm layer. 901 shows yet another alternative arrangement. In this example, the first, second, and third layers 902, 903, and 904 are composed of first, second, and third separation sheets 905, 906, and 907.

  FIG. 10 illustrates a plurality of conductive layers including a first layer 1002 that is a first non-qtcm layer, a second layer 1003 that is a qtcm layer, and a third layer 1004 that is a second non-qtcm layer. 1001 alternative arrangements are shown. In this example, the first and second layers 1002 and 1003 are configured as a first separation sheet 1005, and the third layer 1004 is configured as a second separation sheet 1006. In an alternative example, the first layer 1002 is configured as a first separation sheet, and the second and third layers 1003, 1004 are configured as second separation sheets. In both instances, a single qtcm layer is deployed between two non-qtcm layers. This arrangement is similar to the arrangement of FIG. 9 in that a single qtcm layer is arranged between two non-qtcm layers, but differs in that there is one less separating sheet.

  FIG. 11 illustrates a first layer 1102 that is a first non-qtcm layer, a second layer 1103 that is a first qtcm layer, a third layer 1104 that is a second qtcm layer, An alternative arrangement of a plurality of conductive layers 1101 including a fourth layer 1105 that is a non-qtcm layer is shown. In this example, the first and second layers 1102 and 1103 are configured as a first separation sheet 1106, and the third and fourth layers 1104 and 1105 are configured as a second separation sheet 1107. Thus, two qtcm layers are deployed between two non-qtcm layers. In the arrangement of FIGS. 9-11, the deployment of the intermediate qtcm layer typically eliminates the need to make up for the remote conductive layer and can be accepted as a layer that also has a useful electrical function.

  The qtc material is constructed by itself to provide the qtcm layer and may be the separation sheet described above. Alternatively, the qtcm layer can be manufactured by impregnating a non-conductive material with a qtcm material. The non-conductive material may include fibers, and the fibers may be woven fibers. Techniques for applying QTC layers on other conductive layers to form separation sheets include application by painting, painting, brushing, spreading, screen printing, stencil printing, doctor blading, ink jet printing or Meyer bar technology . The conductive layer available in the sensing zone may be substantially flexible or substantially rigid. The conductive layer may be applied to the substrate. The substrate may be substantially flexible or substantially rigid. As such, the sensor may be configured to be substantially flexible or substantially rigid. Techniques for applying a conductive material onto a substrate that can be a non-conductive layer or a single conductive layer of a plurality of conductive layers are: coating, painting, brushing, spreading, screen printing, stencil printing, doctor blading, inkjet Includes grants by printing or Mayer bar technology.

(Fig. 12)
FIG. 12 shows the arrangement of detection bands. The conductive layer may include a single conductive region as described above, or may include a plurality of conductive regions as described later.
Due to the sensing band arrangement 1201, the first conductive layer indicated by 1202 represents a plurality of conductive rows, and the second conductive layer indicated by 1203 represents a plurality of conductive columns. Each row is electrically isolated from the other rows, and similarly each column is electrically isolated from the other columns.

Each row has a first electrical terminal and a second electrical terminal that are electrically connected to each other, and an inclination of an electrical potential is determined in a first direction between the first electrical terminal and the second electrical terminal. Configured as follows.
For example, the row 1204 has a first electrical terminal R1L and a second electrical terminal R1B that are electrically connected to each other, and is configured such that the gradient of the electrical potential is determined in the first direction R1 therebetween.

Each column has a third electrical terminal and a fourth electrical terminal that are electrically connected to each other, and the gradient of the electrical potential is determined in the second direction between the third electrical terminal and the fourth electrical terminal. Configured to do.
For example, the column 1205 has a third electrical terminal C1B and a fourth electrical terminal C1T that are electrically connected to each other, and is configured such that the gradient of the electrical potential is determined in the first direction C1 therebetween. When using the terms “row” and “column”, the rows and columns are parallel to each other in the first and second layers, respectively, and the directions R1 and C1 are substantially perpendicular.

(Fig. 13)
FIG. 13 illustrates a procedure for generating first and second position characteristics and range characteristics of mechanical interaction in a sensor using the four-terminal electrical configuration described with reference to the sensing band arrangement of FIGS. Shows the steps.
In step 1302, a conductive region is selected. The conductive region includes rows and columns.
In step 1303, an operation is performed to determine the first and second position characteristics and range characteristics of the conductive region selected in step 1302, after which the process proceeds to step 1304.

  In step 1304, a question is asked as to whether a different row than the row selected as part of the conductive region selected in step 1302 should be asked. If the question asked in step 1304 is an affirmative answer, proceed again to step 1302 where a different conductive region for the question is selected. Instead, if the question asked in step 1304 is a negative answer, go to step 1305. In step 1305, an inquiry is made as to whether a different column from the column selected as part of the conductive region selected in step 1302 should be asked. If the question asked in step 1305 is an affirmative answer, proceed again to step 1302 where a different conductive region for the question is selected. Instead, if the question asked in step 1305 is a negative answer, the inquiry ends.

  Thus, procedure 1301 provides a circular pass for each valid row in combination with a particular column and continues until all valid row and column combinations are executed in step 1303. In this way, procedure 1301 provides a circular pass for all valid conductive region combinations.

(Fig. 14)
FIG. 14 shows a detection band 1401 provided by a matrix of rows and columns. In the illustrated example, the detection band is provided by a matrix having 8 rows R1 to R8 and 8 columns C1 to C8. Each of the rows R1 to R8 has a first electrical terminal and a second electrical terminal that are electrically connected to each other, and the gradient of the electrical potential is between the first electrical terminal and the second electrical terminal in the first direction. Is configured to be confirmed. Each row C1 to C8 has a third electrical terminal and a fourth electrical terminal that are electrically connected to each other, and substantially between the third electrical terminal and the fourth electrical terminal in the first direction. The inclination of the electric potential is determined in the vertical second direction. As will be described in detail below, it is possible to select the conduction band of the detection band 1401.

  As shown at 1402, the electrical terminals at the same end of the rows R1 to R8 may be electrically assembled, and as shown at 1403, the electrical terminals at the other ends of the rows R1 to R8 are electrically assembled. Also good. Thus, R1-R8 can be electrically assembled for detection purposes. Similarly, as shown at 1404, the electrical terminals at the same end of columns C1-C8 may be electrically assembled, and as shown at 1405, the electrical terminals at the other end of rows C1-C8 are electrically You may aggregate. Thus, columns C1-C8 can be electrically assembled for sensing purposes. The maximum effective conduction band of the detection band 1401 is represented by the rows R1 to R8 electrically assembled in this way and the columns C1 to C8 electrically assembled in this way. Optionally, multiple adjacent rows or multiple adjacent columns can be electrically assembled to achieve a smaller conduction band in the detection band 1401.

For example, as indicated by reference numerals 1406 and 1407, four adjacent rows that are electrically half of the detection band 1401 can be assembled. Similarly, as shown by reference numerals 1408 and 1409, it is possible to aggregate four adjacent columns that are electrically half of the detection band 1401. A pair of adjacent rows or columns may be selectively electrically aggregated as indicated by 1410 and 1411 for rows and 1412 and 1413 for columns.
The selectivity of the conduction band of the sensing band 1401 provides a method for detecting a mechanical interaction and a method for determining a position characteristic and a range characteristic of the mechanical interaction.

(Fig. 15)
FIG. 15 illustrates a procedure for generating first and second position characteristics and range characteristics of mechanical interaction in a sensor using the four-terminal electrical configuration described with reference to the sensing band arrangement of FIGS. Shows the steps.
In step 1502, a conduction band is selected.
In step 1503, an operation is performed to determine the first and second position characteristics and range characteristics of the conductive region selected in step 1502, after which the process proceeds to step 1504.

  In step 1504, an inquiry is made as to whether a conduction band different from the conduction band selected in step 1502 should be questioned. If the question asked in step 1504 is an affirmative answer, proceed again to step 1502 to select a different conduction band for the question. Instead, if the question asked in step 1504 is a negative answer, go to step 1505. In step 1505, an inquiry is made as to whether the operation performed in step 1503 should be repeated for the same conduction band. If the question asked in step 1505 is an affirmative answer, the process proceeds to step 1503 again. Instead, if the question asked in step 1505 is a negative answer, the inquiry ends.

The procedure of 1501 provides the maximum conduction band of all sensing bands to be selected and then the entire sensing band to be broken down into smaller bands that concentrate at the site of mechanical interaction.
In some applications, typically the maximum conduction band is selected and only one of the operations performed in step 1503 is performed to detect mechanical interactions. Following detection of the mechanical interaction, steps 1502-1505 are performed. Upon detecting the removal of the mechanical interaction, the maximum conduction band is again selected and ready for the detection of the next mechanical interaction.

  In such a manner, detection of a single mechanical interaction within the sensing band may be performed to generate data indicative of the position and range characteristics of the mechanical interaction. In addition, individual detection of a number of simultaneously independent mechanical interactions in different regions within the sensing band may be performed to generate data indicative of the position and range characteristics of each mechanical interaction. Thus, a sensor having the structure described herein can be configured to provide a multi-contact sensor.

(Fig. 16)
FIG. 16 shows an example of a method for producing a sensor having the structure described herein. In step 1601, a substrate is received. In this example, the substrate is a substantially rectangular layer of foldable film. A left side L and a right side R are defined by a substantially central axis F, and the left side L and the right side R have substantially equal dimensions.

In step 1602, a first operation is performed to attach a terminal to the substrate received in step 1601. In the first orientation, a pair of terminals is provided on the left side L, and in the second orientation, a pair of terminals of 90 degrees with the first orientation is provided on the right side R. As an example, the plurality of electrical terminals of the sensor includes at least one electrical terminal implemented in silver.
The second operation is performed in step 1603 to provide a non-qtc material region covering the pair of terminals applied to the left side L and to provide a non-qtc material region covering the pair of terminals applied to the right side R. The
In step 1604, a third operation is performed to cover at least one of the left L region of the non-qtc material applied in step 1603 or the right R region of the non-qtc material with qtc material.

Next, in step 1605, a folding operation is performed, and the base body is folded on the axis F to align the left side L and the right side R. When one region of qtc material is applied in step 1604, the arrangement of FIG. 10 is obtained. When two regions of qtc material are applied in step 1604, the arrangement of FIG. 11 is obtained.
In step 1606, an operation of sealing the end of the sensor caused by step 1605 is performed. As an example, the end of the sensor is sealed with an insulating adhesive. Thereafter, a conductive layer may be freely placed in the sensor. As described herein, rubbing the conductive layers together within the sensing zone will not destroy the sensing function of the sensor having the structure described herein.

Since one or two pieces of non-foldable substrates may be received in step 1601, it can be appreciated that the operation of step 1601 may be adapted to provide the same shape as a result. As an example, the substrate is made of glass.
Following step 1606, the sensor may then be electrically connected to an interface device configured to apply a voltage to the terminal attached in step 1602 and receive the signal. At this stage, an appropriate calibration procedure may be performed, for example, to cancel out distortions induced by edge effects.
As shown in the prior art sensors, it can be seen that this manufacturing method does not normally require a separation between one conductive plane and the other conductive plane by the introduction of a standoff. .

(Fig. 17)
FIG. 17 shows a first application example of a sensor having the structure described herein. A writer 1702 can write on the writing surface 1703 with a stylus 1704 on the writing board 1701. In response, the path of the stylus 1704 on the writing surface 1703 is represented by a color trace 1705 that contrasts with the background color of the writing board 1701.

  It has been found that the use of a sensor having the structure described herein provides several advantages for the function of the writing plate 1701. As noted above, the sensor structure described herein and the use of each included qtcm layer eliminates the need to provide a separation layer during writing plate manufacture. This makes it possible to reduce costs and time in the production of white boards. Furthermore, there are problems with prior art writing plates that utilize prior art sensors that require a separation layer. The increase in the size of the writing surface of these prior art writing plates results in an increase in the tension required in the layer for the separation layer to operate with the same reliability. Thus, there is a physical limit on the maximum achievable dimension before the item is unreliable.

  However, since the sensor having the structure described herein withstands contact of the conductive layer, there is no need to provide a separation layer between the conductive layers. This overcomes the physical limitations of the maximum achievable dimensions of prior art writing plates. Thus, the writing plate can be provided in any size without loss of function. This expandability of the writing board is indicated by 1706. In addition, sensors of the type described herein can be made in any shape, and therefore items that incorporate this type of sensor may also be in any shape.

(Fig. 18)
FIG. 18 shows a flexible sensor 1801 having the structure described herein. The prior art flexible sensor can ensure that the first and second conductive layers are normally separated, and further the first and second conductive layers are in contact during the mechanical interaction. And the use of a second textile fiber conductive layer and a separate air layer. The problem with this type of flexible sensor is that some iteration of bending results in some experience of the flexible conductive layer becoming in contact. This can lead to false triggering and can be increased to a level of occurrence where the flexible sensor cannot be used effectively.

  A sensor having the structure described herein detects a mechanical interaction when the conductive layer is in contact during the rest state of the sensor. In this way, the sensor can withstand bending or bending of a type that effectively presses the conductive layers together. Thus, a sensor having the structure described herein is particularly useful in the production of flexible sensors because it overcomes false triggering problems. In addition, as discussed above, the sensor is configured without requiring separation between conductive layers, which simplifies the manufacturing process, reduces material, and helps reduce production time and costs. On the other hand, sensors having the structure described herein serve to meet the ever-growing demand for sensors that are reliable and available to indicate the position and range characteristics of mechanical interactions within the sensing band.

(Fig. 19)
Sensors having the structure described herein can be used in applications where the center of the applied pressure is detectable. FIG. 19 shows a first sensor 1901 and a second sensor 1902 that are incorporated into separate items 1903, 1904. The pair of sensors 1901, 1902 can thus be represented as first and second detection bands. The human 1905 stands on the sensors 1901, 1902 such that the first foot 1906 applies pressure to the first sensor 1901 and the second foot 1907 applies pressure to the second sensor 1902.

  An electrical signal is generated indicating the positional and range characteristics of the mechanical interaction between each sensor, providing first and second sets of data. This may be achieved by the arrangement shown at 1908. By combining the first and second sets of data, it is possible to give an indication of the center position of the applied pressure as shown at 1909. It can be seen that the center of applied pressure can be indicated in this way for any type of object. The center position of the applied pressure is indicated in relation to the reference axis 1910, which in this example is at a substantially central position between the two sensors 1901, 1902.

(Fig. 20)
As shown in FIG. 20, the first and second sensors 1901 and 1902 of FIG. 19 may be electrically connected to operate as a single sensor shown in 2001.
It can be understood that the indicated position of the pressure center changes depending on the magnitude of the pressure applied to each sensor 1901, 1902. In this illustrated example, the human 1905 presses relatively strongly with the right foot 1906 and presses relatively weakly with the left foot 1907. As a result, as indicated by 1909, the indicated position of the applied pressure center is substantially closer to the right foot 1906 on the side of the central reference line 1910. For example, a similar effect can be achieved by providing the first and second sensors 1901, 1902 in the form of an insole for footwear. This type of sensor arrangement may be used as an input sensor for game applications. For example, the sensor could be used for input for play in a golf game, or any kind of vehicle game such as a surfboard, snowboard or skateboard.

(Fig. 21)
FIG. 21 shows a sensor organized to detect simultaneous multiple mechanical interactions within the sensing zone. The sensor 2101 is organized to detect the center of applied pressure while there are multiple mechanical interactions at the same time, and pressure is applied by a human 1905 as shown at 2102. In this example, sensor 2101 represents a substantially rectangular detection band and utilizes the above four terminal detection shape. Also, an arrangement of the type shown in FIG. 21 could be used for input for play in a golf game or any kind of vehicle game such as surfboards, snowboards or skateboards.

(Fig. 22)
FIG. 22 shows a sensor 2201 having the structure described herein and is configured to provide a substantially circular sensing band 2202. In this illustrated example, sensor 2201 has a four-terminal sensing arrangement for the structure described herein to indicate first and second positional and range characteristics of mechanical interaction.

(Fig. 23)
FIG. 23 shows a sensor 2301 having the structure described herein and is configured to provide a substantially annular sensing band 2302. In this example, sensor 2301 has a three terminal sensing arrangement for the structure described herein to indicate first and second position and range characteristics of mechanical interaction. This type of sensor exhibiting a substantially annular detection band is suitable for providing a “scroll wheel” function.

  As shown at 2303, sensor 2301 includes a first substantially annular conductive layer 2304 and a second substantially annular conductive layer 2305. The first conductive layer 2304 is provided with first and second electrical terminals 2306 and 2307 toward both ends of the substantially annular conductive region 2302, and the second conductive layer 2305 is provided in the substantially annular conductive region 2302. A third electrical terminal 2308 extending around is provided. Thus, the first, second, and third electrical terminals 2306, 2307, and 2308 are all line terminals, and the third electrical terminal 2308 has a length that is longer than the length of the first and second electrical terminals 2306, 2307. Have.

(Fig. 24)
FIG. 24 shows a further application for the two-dimensional detection band. In this example for the video capture device 2402, the tripod 2401 has legs 2403, 2404 and 2405. A sensor 2406 having the structure described herein is located under the tripod legs 2403, 2404, and 2405. Sensor 2406 allows feedback to be provided regarding the relative support provided by tripod legs 2403, 2404 and 2405, respectively. Further, as shown at 2407 or as described with reference to FIGS. 20 and 21, the combined pressure center of the tripod 2401 and the image capture device 2202 it supports is obtained.

(Fig. 25)
A sensor having the structure described herein may represent a detection band that is substantially two-dimensional or substantially three-dimensional. FIG. 25 shows an application example of a sensor having the structure described herein and having a substantially three-dimensional detection band. In this explanatory diagram, a three-dimensional detection band 2501 is included in a saddle 2502. In the illustrated script, the horse 2303 is wearing a saddle 2502 and the horse is under the control of a jockey 2504. The sensor generates an electrical signal in response to a physical interaction with a sensing band 2501 where jockey 2504 indicates the position and range characteristics of those physical interactions. This allows dynamic profiling of the jockey's motion on the horse. The sensor or sensor arrangement described herein may be adjusted to be worn by a human or animal. For example, the sensors or sensor arrangements described herein may be worn on each paw of a quadruped animal and adjusted to determine whether the animal is applying more pressure with the forefoot or hind paw.

  The three-dimensional sensor may be manufactured by a molding process or may be composed of a plurality of parts that are sequentially assembled together. However, it can be appreciated that care must be taken during the manufacturing process to ensure that undesirable internal pressure does not occur in the sensor that affects proper operation.

(Fig. 26)
FIG. 26 shows the controller 2601 and is configured for recognizing pressure and gesture. The controller may be arranged to provide control for the audio playback device and / or provide a navigation menu for the car phone or computing device. As an example, a first detection band, such as a button area, is provided for detecting a press, and a second detection band, such as a scroll area, is provided for detecting a gesture. The controller may be incorporated into other devices or may incorporate a wireless interface to provide remote control functionality. Thus, a sensor having the structure described herein is relatively practical and inexpensive to produce, is more durable, and is ready for data analysis of a series of mechanical interactions.

  Although specific applications of sensors having the structures described herein are provided, the sensors according to the present invention can be used in many applications across different fields and devices. For example, the sensor according to the present invention is used in sports application, medical application, educational application, industrial application, automobile phone application, toy and game application, wearable item application, automobile application, robot application, safety application, keyboard and input device application. Is possible. Various arrangements may be utilized in the mechanical interaction detection device, and any combination of the sensors described herein may be incorporated into a single device.

Claims (20)

A sensor for generating an electrical signal indicative of a position characteristic and a range characteristic of a mechanical interaction within a sensing zone, the sensor comprising a plurality of conductive layers, at least:
The first electric terminal and the second electric terminal are electrically connected, and the inclination of the electric potential can be determined in the first direction between the first electric terminal and the second electric terminal. A first conductive layer having a first conductive region;
A second conductive layer having a second conductive region having a third electrical terminal in electrical connection;
The sensor is configured to establish an electrical path between the first conductive region and the second conductive region during mechanical interaction within the sensing zone;
At least one of the plurality of conductive layers is a pressure sensitive conductive layer comprising a quantum tunneling conductive (qtc) material;
A sensor configured to allow contact between conductive layers while no mechanical interaction is present in the sensing zone.   The sensor according to claim 1, wherein the third electrical terminal is a sheet terminal.   The second conductive region has a fourth electrical terminal that is electrically connected, and an inclination of an electrical potential between the third electrical terminal and the fourth electrical terminal is substantially the same as the first direction. The sensor of claim 1, wherein the sensor is configured to be determinable in a vertical second direction. The first conductive layer represents a plurality of conductive rows, each row being electrically isolated from the other rows, each row having a first electrical terminal and a second electrical terminal that are electrically connected, wherein the first An electric potential gradient between the electric terminal and the second electric terminal can be determined in the first direction,
The second conductive layer represents a plurality of conductive columns, each column being electrically isolated from the other columns, each column having a third electrical terminal and a fourth electrical terminal electrically connected; The sensor according to claim 3, wherein the sensor is configured such that an inclination of an electric potential between the third electric terminal and the fourth electric terminal can be determined in a second direction substantially perpendicular to the first direction. A first pressure sensitive conductive layer comprising a quantum tunneling conductive (qtc) material provides the first conductive layer;
A second pressure sensitive conductive layer comprising a quantum tunneling conductive (qtc) material provides said second conductive layer;
The sensor according to claim 1, wherein the sensor has only the first conductive layer and the second conductive layer.   The sensor of claim 1, wherein a pressure sensitive conductive layer comprising a quantum tunneling conductive (qtc) material provides a third conductive layer disposed between the first conductive layer and the second conductive layer.   The sensor according to claim 6, wherein the third conductive layer is configured as a separation layer.   The sensor of claim 6, wherein the third conductive layer and one of the first conductive layer and the second conductive layer are configured to provide a separation layer.   The pressure-sensitive conductive layer comprising a quantum tunneling conductive (qtc) material provides a fourth conductive layer, and the fourth conductive layer, the first conductive layer, and the other of the second conductive layer 9. A sensor according to claim 8, wherein one is configured as a separation layer.   The sensor according to claim 1, wherein the range characteristic is one of a magnitude of an applied force, a magnitude of an applied pressure, and a region of mechanical interaction.   The sensor according to claim 1, wherein the detection band is one of a substantially rectangular shape and a substantially circular shape.   The sensor according to claim 1, wherein the detection band is one of substantially two dimensions and substantially three dimensions.   The sensor of claim 1, wherein the sensor is one of substantially flexible and substantially rigid.   The sensor of claim 1, wherein the at least one conductive layer comprises woven fibers.   The sensor of claim 1, wherein the at least one electrical terminal comprises silver.   The sensor of claim 1, wherein the at least one conductive layer comprises carbon. A method of generating an electrical signal indicating the position and range characteristics of a mechanical interaction within a sensing band of a sensor,
Receiving the sensor of claim 1;
Determining a slope of an electrical potential in a first direction across the first conductive layer between the first electrical terminal and the second electrical terminal;
Receiving a first voltage from the third electrical terminal to generate a first position value;
Processing the first position value to generate a first position characteristic of mechanical interaction;
Determining an electrical potential from one of the first electrical terminal and the second electrical terminal of the first conductive layer to generate a first current;
Measuring the first current from the third electrical terminal of the second conductive layer to generate a first current value;
Determining an electrical potential from the other one of the first electrical terminal and the second electrical terminal of the first conductive layer to generate a second current;
Measuring the second current from the third electrical terminal of the second conductive layer to generate a second current value;
A method comprising the steps of processing the second current value in combination with the first current value to generate a range characteristic of mechanical interaction.   The method of claim 17, wherein the third electrical terminal is a sheet terminal.   The method of claim 17, wherein the detection band is one of substantially two-dimensional and substantially three-dimensional. A method of generating an electrical signal indicating the position and range characteristics of a mechanical interaction within a sensing band of a sensor,
Receiving the sensor of claim 3;
Establishing a slope of an electrical potential in the first direction across the first conductive layer between the first electrical terminal and the second electrical terminal;
Receiving a first voltage from one of the third electrical terminal and the fourth electrical terminal of the second conductive layer to generate a first position value;
Processing the first position value to generate a first position value of mechanical interaction;
Determining a slope of an electrical potential in the second direction across the second conductive layer between the third electrical terminal and the fourth electrical terminal;
Receiving a second voltage from one of the first electrical terminal and the second electrical terminal of the first conductive layer to generate a second position value;
Processing the second position value to generate a second position value of mechanical interaction;
Determining an electrical potential from one of the first electrical terminal and the second electrical terminal of the first conductive layer to generate a first current;
Measuring a current from one of the third electrical terminal and the second electrical terminal of the second conductive layer to generate a first current value;
Determining an electrical potential from the other one of the first electrical terminal and the second electrical terminal of the first conductive layer to generate a second current;
Measuring the second current from the other one of the third electrical terminal and the fourth electrical terminal of the second conductive layer to generate a second current value;
A method comprising the steps of processing the second current value in combination with the first current value to generate a range characteristic of mechanical interaction.

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